My aunt, the oldest living member of my home church, and I were reminiscing recently about a Sunday school class called “Willing Workers.” I was reminded of it when pondering today’s Bible reading that is set in a context of volunteerism for the Lord on a grand scale.
Moses had received explicit instructions from the Lord for constructing the tabernacle and its furnishings. The time to implement those plans was at hand. Before getting into that process, Moses reminded the people that they must respect the Sabbath, their holy day. Work, even volunteer work for the Lord, was never intended to replace obedience to his law.
Step one was the gathering of the necessary materials. There was no building supplies store where things could be purchased. Such a place was not needed. The Israelites already owned everything that was required. It simply needed to be gathered. God had previously commanded an offering be taken. Thus, Moses’ calling for an offering was compulsory. However, the people’s bringing an offering to the Lord was not compulsory. It was a free will offering given only by willing givers.
Step two was the recruiting of labor. Having planned the construction of the tabernacle, God had sent the Holy Spirit to prepare individuals with all the skills that would be needed. This was a work of God’s grace probably going unperceived by the men as their skills grew. The potential for utilizing those specialized skills for personal benefit may have been lucrative. Each gifted craftsman was free to use his skills as he chose. It was those who chose to use them for the Lord that answered Moses’ call. Willing Workers! What a great name for our Lord’s volunteers.
It was at a camp meeting in Maine when in my early teens that I was challenged to begin praying, “Lord, what will you have me do with my life?” — with a pledge to the Lord that I would obey his leading. It’s been about 80 years and my testimony is — “It’s a privilege to be a willing worker for the Lord.” Are you praying that prayer?
Donald E. Wrigley
Extended Scripture: Exodus 35–38 (NIV)
